How do we always choose to do the right thing? Well, we can’t. It’s very difficult to always choose the right thing. But, if we were to strive for something, we should strive for honesty. The tough thing about honesty is that it’s so hard to keep telling the truth even when it gets you in trouble. And, well, the truth really does hurt. That’s when this article comes in. Learn about some influential figures who show honesty and how they used it to succeed.
3 Influential Figures Who Show Honesty
1. George Washington
George Washington, one of the most famous presidents of the United States, was known for his integrity and honesty. He was a man of principle and had a very strong sense of honor which meant his word counted for something and that he would do everything in his power to make good on the promises he’s made.
He is a servant leader aiming to be a good leader to a new nation. Not only was he an inspiration to the men he led in the field of battle. He was a good president and an honest man.
2. Gandhi
Gandhi is a popular, if not the most popular, activist who was a leader of Indian nationalism when the British ruled India. He led campaigns on everything from poverty to women’s rights to religion. And, being honest and true to his word, only ever did non-violent actions from inspiring movements to peaceful protests.
3. Martin Luther King
And last but not least, we have Martin Luther King. Responsible for the famed “I Had A Dream” speech that led to a revolutionary change and brought racism to light, Martin Luther King valued honesty as much as kindness and equality. And this is evident in his different speeches and how he advocates for what he believes in.
Honesty could have gotten him to jail or could have killed him. It was a great risk standing in front of thousands and talking about change when change was an unwelcome prospect before. And yet, that did not stop him. Instead, he kept going. He kept inspiring and he continues to inspire long after he’s died.
How do you use honesty to better your life?
Being honest with others and yourself is important and will help you go a long way. If you want to be successful and if you want to be happy, you have to be honest. Be honest with others because keeping secrets can create a toxic environment, weaken your relationships, and feel like such a burden. But most of all, be honest to yourself.
The only way for us to progress and for us to better ourselves is if we were honest. We have to assess ourselves. What are our strengths and weaknesses? We have to be able to honestly admit these things so we can turn our weaknesses into strengths or so we can maximize and play to our strengths.
Being honest will hurt. Let’s be real. No one wants their weaknesses pointed out. No one wants insecurities. No one wants to tell the truth when lying comes so much easier. But think about this. What would our world be like without honesty? It’d be a pit filled with vipers. People like Martin Luther King wouldn’t have been brave enough to advocate for equality and speak honestly. Honesty is a trait that could change your life.
By Moira Du
